Green Fertilizer Training Boosts Farmer Knowledge and Cuts Chemical Dependence in Samarinda
A 2026 study led by Hajar Anuar and Noor Hindryawati from Mulawarman University shows that introducing green chemistry–based slow-release fertilizers significantly improves farmers’ knowledge and supports sustainable agriculture. Conducted in Lempake, Samarinda, and published in the Indonesian Journal of Society Development, the program demonstrates how locally sourced materials like zeolite and biomass waste can reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers while maintaining soil productivity.
Chemical Fertilizer Dependence Becomes a Growing Problem
Farmers in many parts of Indonesia, including Samarinda, still rely heavily on chemical fertilizers. While effective in the short term, prolonged use has led to declining soil quality, nutrient imbalance, and environmental pollution.
In Lempake Village, these challenges are compounded by rising fertilizer prices and fluctuating availability. Farmers often reduce fertilizer usage to cut costs, which directly impacts crop yields and income stability.
At the same time, the region has abundant organic resources, including agricultural waste such as lai (Durio kutejensis) peel. This creates an opportunity to develop alternative fertilizers that are both affordable and environmentally friendly.
Practical Training Using Local Materials
The research is based on a community-based training program involving 30 farmers from two local groups: Karya Mandiri and Sedap Malam. The program was conducted in stages throughout 2023–2024, combining education, demonstration, and hands-on practice.
The approach included:
- Initial field surveys to identify farmer needs
- Training sessions on green chemistry and fertilizer concepts
- Demonstrations of fertilizer production
- Guided practice in producing fertilizer
- Evaluation through pre-tests, post-tests, and satisfaction surveys
This method ensured that participants not only understood the concept but also gained practical skills they could immediately apply.
Key Findings: Knowledge and Skills Improve Significantly
The results show a strong impact on farmer understanding and engagement.
Major findings include:
-
Knowledge increased sharply
Pre-test scores ranged from 30–40%, rising to 80–90% after training -
High satisfaction levels
Farmers reported satisfaction scores between 88% and 95% -
Strong engagement in hands-on learning
Practical demonstrations helped farmers understand complex concepts more easily -
Immediate applicability
Farmers viewed the technology as useful for their daily agricultural activities
The training proved particularly effective because it combined theory with direct practice, allowing farmers to see immediate results.
How the Green Fertilizer Works
The fertilizer developed in the program uses a simple but effective composition:
- 30% natural zeolite
- 20% activated carbon from lai peel (biochar)
- 40% compost
- 10% manure
Each component plays a specific role:
- Zeolite acts as a nutrient reservoir, storing and slowly releasing essential elements
- Biochar improves soil structure and retains water and nutrients
- Compost and manure provide organic nutrients and support microbial activity
This combination creates a slow-release fertilizer, meaning nutrients are delivered gradually to plants rather than being lost through leaching or evaporation.
Why Slow-Release Fertilizer Matters
Traditional fertilizers often release nutrients too quickly, leading to waste and environmental damage. In contrast, slow-release fertilizers improve nutrient efficiency and reduce pollution.
The study shows that using green chemistry principles can:
- Reduce fertilizer waste
- Improve soil health over time
- Lower production costs for farmers
- Decrease environmental impact
Noor Hindryawati from Mulawarman University explains that combining natural materials and local waste creates a sustainable solution. She emphasizes that “green chemistry-based fertilizers allow farmers to maintain productivity while protecting soil and reducing dependency on expensive chemical inputs.”
Real Impact on Farmers and Local Economy
Beyond knowledge gains, the program delivered tangible benefits for the community:
- Farmers learned to produce fertilizer independently
- Agricultural waste, such as lai peel, gained economic value
- Production costs can be reduced through local sourcing
- Awareness of sustainable farming practices increased
The ability to produce fertilizer locally is especially important in regions where supply chains for commercial fertilizers are unstable or costly.
A Scalable Model for Sustainable Agriculture
The success of this program highlights the potential for wider adoption across Indonesia. Similar training initiatives could help farmers in other regions transition to more sustainable practices.
The model is particularly effective because it:
- Uses locally available materials
- Requires low-cost technology
- Is easy to replicate
- Combines education with practical application
Expanding this approach could support national goals for sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental protection.
Author Profiles
Hajar Anuar
Researcher at Mulawarman University specializing in sustainable agriculture and community-based innovation.
Noor Hindryawati
Senior academic at Mulawarman University with expertise in green chemistry, environmental technology, and agricultural sustainability.
Source
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/ijsd.v5i1.5
URL : https://journalijsd.my.id/index.php/ijsd/index
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